Merchant account activation system

ABSTRACT

A merchant account activation system that includes an Internet server that works in conjunction with a master account file operating on a mainframe computer and an expert computer system that is used to configure point-of-sale terminals. Many of the steps of the activation procedure arc performed by a merchant activation routine running on the Internet server, which allows a merchant account may apply for a merchant account during an on-line session conducted with the Internet server. The merchant activation routine obtains application information from the applicant during an on-line session, conducts a credit check and “scores” the application as a credit risk during the on-line session. If the application is approved, the merchant activation routine displays a fee schedule and associated terms and conditions to the applicant for acceptance. In response to merchant acceptance of the terms and conditions of a merchant account during an on-line session, the merchant activation routine or an associated computer operated by the acquirer generates identification information associated with the merchant account and the point-of-sale terminal, such as a Merchant Identification Number (MID) and a Terminal Identification Number (TID).

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to electronic commerce and, more particularly,relates to a system for electronically activating merchant accounts andordering point-of-service merchant account equipment, typically over theInternet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Merchant accounts allow businesses to accept payment by credit cards andother payment instruments that rely on remote validation and/ortransaction processing. For convenience, merchant accounts will bedescribed in the context of credit cards. Nevertheless, it should beunderstood that merchant accounts may also be used in connection withother payment instruments that rely on remote payment-source validationand/or transaction processing, such as debit cards, smart cards, wiretransfers, money orders, traveler's checks, personal checks, and varioustypes of e-money. In fact, the merchant accounts described in thisspecification may be used in connection with any type of financialtransaction system that uses some type of remote payment-sourcevalidation and/or remote transaction processing.

Basically, a “merchant account” is a contractual arrangement between amerchant and an “acquirer,” such as First Data Merchant Services, thatremotely processes financial transactions conducted by the merchant. Forexample, the merchant accepts credit-card transactions as payment forgoods or services provided to its customers, and the acquirer performsthe services of remote credit card validation and transactionprocessing. Typically, the merchant enters information from the magneticstrip on the credit card into a point-of-sale terminal using a “cardswipe” reader or a keypad on the terminal. In response, the terminalautomatically places a telephone call to the acquirer's computer system,which performs the validation and transaction processing operations.Specifically, if the credit card is validated, the acquirer charges thecost of the transaction to the customer's credit card account, andcredits the corresponding value to the merchant's account. To providethese services, the acquirer maintains contractual relationships andelectronic communication capabilities with all or many of the majorcredit card issuers. This allows the acquirer to validate the creditcards and process the transactions in “real time” at the time of thetransaction. For this service, the acquirer charges a small fee pertransaction.

To establish this type of merchant account, the merchant typicallyapplies for the account by filling out a written application. Themerchant account application includes information relating to the typeof business, its location, sales data, owners, bank accounts,authorization to pay for the merchant account services, and so forth.After receiving the written application, the acquirer manuallytranscribes the information from the application into the acquirer'scomputer system. The acquirer then conducts a credit check and, based onthe merchant's credit rating and type of business, determines a feeschedule and associated terms and conditions for providing the merchantaccount services. The acquirer then incorporates this information into awritten con tract, which is delivered to the merchant.

If the merchant agrees to the fee schedule and associated terms andconditions, the merchant signs the contract and returns it to theacquirer. At this point, the merchant may also order one or morepoint-of-sale terminals from the acquirer for use in accepting creditcard payments. To enable the acquirer's computer system to communicatewith each point-of-sale terminal, the merchant obtains telephone servicefor each point-of-sale terminal and specifies the associated telephonedirectory number for each point-of-sale terminal. Upon receipt of theexecuted contract and the point-of-sale equipment order, the acquirerassigns the merchant a “Merchant Identification Number” (MID). Theacquirer also assigns each point-of-sale terminal a “TerminalIdentification Number” (TID), loads operating software onto thepoint-of-sale terminals, and configures each terminal with theassociated MID/TID and the appropriate telephone number for accessingthe acquirer's computer system.

The acquirer also provisions its master account file with a record forthe new merchant account, including the MID/TID information, thetelephone directory number assigned to each point-of-sale terminal (oralternatively using network codes), and other information related to theoperation of the account, such as accounting and billing schedules. Theacquirer is now ready to receive and process credit card transactionsfor the merchant account via telephone calls placed from the merchant'spoint-of-sale terminals to the telephone number assigned to theacquirer's computer system. In addition, the acquirer has the ability toplace telephone calls to remotely access the point-of-sale terminals.This allows the acquirer to reconfigure each point-of-sale terminal, forexample by downloading new operating software, changing the MID/TIDdata, altering the telephone number for accessing the acquirer'scomputer system, and so forth. This may include alteration of filelayouts for sending or receiving data transmissions.

The acquirer then ships the point-of-sale terminals to the merchant, whoconnects each terminal to its associated telephone line or wirelessunit. The merchant is now ready to begin accepting credit cardtransactions. It should be noted that as an alternative to obtaining newpoint-of-sale equipment as described above, the merchant may useexisting point-of-sale equipment. For example, the merchant may alreadyown one or more point-of-sale terminals for use in a new merchantaccount relationship. In this case, the acquirer may remotely reprogrameach point-of-sale terminal by placing a telephone call to the terminaland downloading new operating software and/or configuration data.Alternatively, the merchant may ship the terminals to the acquirer forreprogramming. That is, there are several methods for authorizing amerchant to use a merchant account and ensuring that the MID/TID andtelephone information maintained in the merchant's point-of-saleterminal is consistent with that maintained in the acquirer's masteraccount file. The process of accomplishing this result is known as“activating” the merchant account for credit-card transactions.

Although the activation process described above has worked well, it cantake several days or weeks to complete. In particular, the use of themail to deliver the merchant account application to the merchant, andthen to receive the completed application from the merchant, typicallytakes about a week. The data transcription and approval process oftentakes another week. The process of configuring and delivering one ormore point-of-sale terminals to the merchant may take yet another week.In today's world of e-commerce and fast-paced business decisions, thisold-world merchant account activation system may unnecessarily delay thestart up of new business ventures. Therefore, there is a need for afaster and more efficient system for activating merchant accounts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention meets the needs described above in an electronicmerchant account activation system, typically implemented using theInternet. This system allows a merchant to complete the merchant accountapplication and agree to its terms and conditions in a matter of minutesduring a single on-line session. The completion of the merchant accountapplication results in a web-based collection of data that automaticallypopulates corresponding data fields in the acquirer's master accountfile and the related activation systems. Using this information, themerchant account activation system automatically conducts a credit checkand evaluates the applicant's credit risk in a process known as on-line“scoring.” The application then receives an immediate accept or rejectdecision during the on-line session. If the application is accepted, themerchant may also order point-of-sale terminals for use in connectionwith the new merchant account. The acquirer then configures its masteraccount file and the point-of-sale terminals, and ships thepoint-of-sale terminals for delivery to the merchant. If the merchantselects overnight delivery, the merchant may be able to begin using thenew merchant account as soon as the next business day.

Alternatively, the merchant may elect to have its existing point-of-saleterminals reprogrammed for use with the new merchant account. In thiscase, the acquirer responds to an approved application by placingtelephone calls to the merchant's existing point-of-sale terminals andreprogramming those terminals for use with the new merchant account. Ineither case, the merchant may also order supplies during the on-linesession, such as credit-card receipts and rolls of paper for use withthe point-of-sale terminals. Optionally, the merchant may purchase othergoods and services during the on-line session, such as software foroperating an on-line store, information relating to financingalternatives, cash registers, customized stationary, and a wide varietyof other supplies and information related to the operation of themerchant's business.

Upon receiving a new merchant account application, the merchantactivation system also transmits a visitation request to a visitationdepartment or company. This entity typically makes a physical visit tothe merchant's premises to verify that the applicant requesting themerchant account actually exists and appears to be in the identifiedbusiness. The visitation department or company then returns averification indicating that the visitation has occurred and whether theapplicant appears to be in the identified business. The acquirertypically enters the visitation verification into the merchant's recordin the master account file to complete the record.

Generally described, the invention includes a method and system foractivating a merchant account for use in connection with a point-of-saleterminal. Many of the steps of the method are typically performed by amerchant activation routine running on an Internet server operated by anacquirer, such as First Data Merchant Services. An applicant for amerchant account may apply for the account during an on-line sessionconducted with this Internet server. To begin the process, the merchantactivation routine receives information from an applicant to complete anapplication for the merchant account. The applicant typically fills inblanks in a series of on-line screens to complete the application. Themerchant activation routine also receives information from the applicantselecting a point-of-sale terminal for use in connection with themerchant account. The merchant activation routine then displays termsand conditions to the applicant relating to the administration of themerchant account, and receives an indication of acceptance of the termsand conditions from the applicant The terms and conditions typicallyinclude a fee schedule for services relating to the administration ofthe merchant account.

In response to acceptance of the terms and conditions, the merchantactivation routine or an associated computer operated by the acquirergenerates identification information associated with the merchantaccount and the point-of-sale terminal, such as a MerchantIdentification Number (MID) and a Terminal Identification Number (TID).The merchant activation routine then configures an account file foradministration of the merchant account with the identificationinformation. This account file is typically maintained in an associatedcomputer operated by the acquirer. In addition, the merchant activationroutine schedules the point-of-sale terminal for configuration with theidentification information. A technician or an associated expertcomputer system typically configures the point-of-sale terminal.

In particular, if the merchant has ordered a point-of-sale terminal fromthe acquirer during the on-line session, a technician or an expertcomputer system programs the point-of-sale terminal with theidentification information and then ships the point-of-sale terminal tothe applicant. Alternatively, if the merchant has specified the use ofan existing point-of-sale terminal that is already in the possession ofthe merchant, the merchant activation routine receives a telephonedirectory number associated with the point-of-sale terminal from theapplicant. A technician or an expert computer system subsequently placesa telephone call to the telephone directory number associated with thepoint-of-sale terminal received from the applicant, and reprograms thepoint-of-sale terminal with the identification information during thetelephone call.

The process of receiving information from the applicant completing theapplication for the merchant account may include prompting the user toenter business contact information, business premises information,business sales data, business owner information, and informationrelating to funding for the charges associated with administering themerchant account. In addition, during the on-line session the merchantactivation routine may determine a credit risk score for the applicationand, based on the credit risk score, may establish the terms andconditions for the merchant account. During the on-line session, themerchant activation routine may also electronically issue a visitationorder requesting a physical visit to the premises of the applicant toverify that the applicant is conducting a type of business stated in theapplication.

Additionally, during the on-line session, the merchant activationroutine may display a menu of point-of-sale terminal options and a viewcontrol item in association with each option. The merchant activationroutine may then receive a user command selecting a particular viewcontrol item. In response, the merchant activation routine displays animage depicting the point-of-sale terminal associated with the selectedview control item.

The merchant activation routine may also receive a business typedesignation from the applicant. The merchant activation routine thendetermines a business risk category associated with the business typedesignation. Based on the business risk category associated with thebusiness type designation, the merchant activation routine implementsrisk adjustment measures. For example, the merchant activation routinemay display a menu of risk adjustment measures and receive a usercommand from the applicant indicating a preferred risk adjustmentselection. The merchant activation routine may then implement the riskadjustment measures based on the preferred risk adjustment selection.

Specifically, the merchant activation routine may determine a reserverequirement for the account, display the reserve requirement to theapplicant, and receive a user command from the applicant accepting thereserve requirement. Alternatively or additionally, the merchantactivation routine may determine a risk-adjusted fee schedule for theaccount, display the risk-adjusted fee schedule to the applicant, andreceive a user command from the applicant accepting the risk-adjustedfee schedule.

Thus, the invention allows a merchant to activate a merchant accountduring a single on-line session. After completing the on-lineapplication, the merchant can begin accepting credit-card transactionsas soon as the associated point-of-sale terminal is received orreprogrammed, which may be the next business day. That the inventionimproves over the drawbacks of previous methods for activating merchantaccounts and accomplishes the advantages described above will becomeapparent from the following detailed description of the exemplaryembodiments and the appended drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a merchant account activationsystem in which a point-of-sale terminal is shipped to the merchant.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a merchant account activationsystem in which a point-of-sale terminal in the possession of themerchant is reprogrammed.

FIG. 3 is a logic flow diagram illustrating the operation of a merchantaccount activation routine.

FIG. 4 is a logic flow diagram illustrating a routine for obtainingmerchant account information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 5 is a logic flow diagram illustrating a routine for activatinghigh risk measures in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 6 is a logic flow diagram illustrating a routine for accepting apoint-of-sale terminal order in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 7 is a logic flow diagram illustrating a routine for configuring amaster account file and a point-of-sale terminal in a merchant accountactivation routine.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving a businesstype designation in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a display screen stating business typeconditions in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businesscontact information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businesspremises information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businesssales data in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessfacility information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessprocedures information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessowner information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessbank reference information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessfunding information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving transactionprocessing type information in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a display screen for receivingpoint-of-sale terminal information in a merchant account activationroutine.

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a display screen for stating a feeschedule in a merchant account activation routine.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a display screen for stating terms andconditions in a merchant account activation routine.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is typically embodied in an Internet server thatworks in conjunction with a master account file operating on a mainframecomputer and an expert computer system that is used to configurepoint-of-sale terminals. These facilities are typically operated by amerchant account acquirer, such as First Data Merchant Services. Many ofthe steps of the activation procedure are performed by a merchantactivation routine running on the Internet server, which allows amerchant to apply for a merchant account during an on-line sessionconducted with the Internet server. Although the merchant accountactivation system is described in the context of the Internet, it shouldbe understood that the system may operate with other types ofdistributed computing systems, such as an intranet, a wide-area network,a local-area network, a telephone-based dial-in computer system, and thelike.

The merchant activation routine obtains application information from theapplicant during an on-line session, conducts a credit check and“scores” the application as a credit risk during the on-line session. Ifthe application is approved, the merchant activation routine displays afee schedule and associated terms and conditions to the applicant foracceptance. In response to merchant acceptance of the terms andconditions of a merchant account during an on-line session, the merchantactivation routine or an associated computer operated by the acquirergenerates identification information associated with the merchantaccount and the point-of-sale terminal, such as a MerchantIdentification Number (MID) and a Terminal Identification Number (TID).The merchant activation routine then configures an account file foradministration of the merchant account with the identificationinformation. This account file is typically maintained in the associatedmainframe computer operated by the acquirer.

The merchant activation routine also allows the merchant to order orspecify one or more point-of-sale terminals for use in connection withthe merchant account. During the on-line session, the merchantactivation routine schedules these terminals for configuration with theidentification information. A technician subsequently uses theassociated expert computer system to configure the point-of-saleterminal. The terminal may be configured at the acquirer's premises andthen shipped to the merchant. Alternatively, if the terminal is alreadyin the possession of the merchant, the terminal may be configuredremotely during a telephone call placed to the terminal.

Turning now to the figures, in which like numerals refer to likeelements through the several figures, FIG. 1 is a block diagramillustrating a merchant account activation system 10 including amerchant site 12 and an acquirer site 14. In this alternative, apoint-of-sale terminal 16 is shipped to the merchant site 12 as theresult of an on-line session conducted over the Internet 20 between themerchant computer 18 located at the merchant site 12, and an acquirerInternet server 22 located at the acquirer site 14. In particular, amerchant activation routine 24 running on the acquirer Internet server22 allows the merchant to activate the merchant account during theon-line session. The acquirer Internet server 22 works in conjunctionwith a main computer 26 including a master account file 28 that containsa record for each merchant account. The acquirer Internet server 22 alsoworks in conjunction with an expert system 30 that a technician uses toconfigure point-of-sale terminals, either on-site or remotely over atelephone system.

In addition, the merchant activation routine 24 transmits a visitationrequest to a visitation department or company 34. This entity typicallymakes a physical visit to the merchant site 12 to verify that theapplicant requesting the merchant account actually exists and appears tobe in the identified business. The visitation department or company 34then returns a verification indicating that the visitation has occurredand whether the applicant appears to be in the identified business. Theacquirer typically enters the visitation verification into themerchant's record in the master account file 28 to complete the recordfor the new merchant account.

A merchant using the merchant computer 18 accesses the acquirer Internetserver 22 over the Internet 20 by entering the universal resourcelocator (URL) associated with the Internet server 22 into a browseroperating on the merchant computer 18. This initiates an on-line sessionbetween the Internet server 22 and the merchant computer 18 during whichthe merchant can apply for a merchant account. The process forcompleting the application is described below with reference to FIGS.3-21. In sum, the merchant activation routine 24 running on the acquirerInternet server 22 obtains application information from the applicantduring an on-line session, conducts a credit check and “scores” theapplication as a credit risk during the on-line session. If theapplication is approved, the merchant activation routine 24 displays afee schedule and associated terms and conditions to the applicant foracceptance. In response to merchant acceptance of the terms andconditions of a merchant account during an on-line session, the merchantactivation routine 24 or the associated computer 26 generatesidentification information associated with the merchant account and thepoint-of-sale terminal, such as a Merchant Identification Number (MID)and a Terminal Identification Number (TID). The merchant activationroutine 24 then directly or indirectly creates a record in the masteraccount file 28 for the new merchant account and configures the recordwith the MID/TID identification information.

That is, if the application is approved by the acquirer and accepted bythe merchant, the merchant activation routine 24 running on the Internetserver 22 directly or indirectly generates identification informationincluding the MID associated with the merchant account and a TIDassociated with each point-of-sale terminal. Specifically, the Internetserver 22 itself may generate the MID/TID identification information, oralternatively the Internet server 22 may trigger the main computer 26 togenerate the MID/TID identification information. In either case, theidentification information is preferably generated and configured intothe master account file 28 during the on-line session.

The merchant activation routine 24 also allows the merchant to order orspecify one or more point-of-sale terminals 16 for use in connectionwith the merchant account. During the on-line session, the merchantactivation routine 24 schedules these terminals for configuration withthe MID/TID identification information. A technician subsequently usesthe associated expert computer system 30 to configure the point-of-saleterminal 16. The terminal may be configured at the acquirer's premisesand then shipped to the merchant. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1,the technician configured the point-of-sale terminal 16 on-site, andshipping company 32 delivers the configured point-of-sale terminal 16 tothe merchant site 12.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the merchant account activationsystem 10 in which a point-of-sale terminal 16′ in the possession of themerchant is reprogrammed. The merchant account activation system 10 isidentical to the system described with reference to FIG. 1, except thatterminal 16′ is already in the possession of the merchant. In this case,the merchant activation routine 24 receives a telephone directory numberassociated with the point-of-sale terminal 16′ during the on-linesession. A technician subsequently uses the expert computer system 30 toplace a telephone call to the telephone directory number associated witthe point-of-sale terminal 16′ over the telephone system 40, andreprograms the terminal with the MID/TID identification informationduring the telephone call.

FIG. 3 is a logic flow diagram illustrating the operation of a merchantaccount activation routine 24. In step 302, the merchant accountactivation routine 24 prompts the applicant to enter a business typeselection. This prompt may ask the user to type a business typedesignation into a data field or, alternatively, may ask the user toselect from a number of predefined business types or groups of businesstypes. For example, the merchant account activation routine 24 may listthe business types by standard industry code (SIC) definitions. Inaddition, the merchant account activation routine 24 may list groups ofSIC definitions in which each SIC definition a particular group has asimilar assigned credit risk. That is, the merchant account activationroutine 24 may group SIC definitions into credit risk groups, and askthe user to select among the credit risk groups. The merchant accountactivation routine 24 may then apply different or additional activationmeasures based on the credit risk group selected by the user.

The display screens illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate an exampleof the use of SIC definitions in the assignment of credit risk groups.In this particular example, a first credit risk group shown on FIG. 8includes furniture stores and other SIC definitions, and a second creditrisk group shown on FIG. 9 includes restaurant or food store and otherSIC definition. In this particular example, the first credit risk groupis considered “high risk,” whereas the second credit risk is notconsidered “high risk.” As a result, the application indicating thefirst credit risk group activates the “high risk measures” illustratedin FIG. 5, whereas an application indicating the second credit riskgroup does not activate these “high risk measures.”

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many other types of menuand display screen structures may be used to obtain and group businesstype information. For example, and long list of SIC definitions may bepresented in which each SIC definition includes a box or circle forclicking in a selection indicator. Alternatively, a list of credit riskgroups may be presented in which each SIC definition includes a box orcircle for clicking in a selection indicator. Any other suitable type ofmenu or display screen may be used to obtain this or any other type ofinformation gathered by the merchant activation routine 24.

Step 302 is followed by routine 304, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 prompts the applicant to enter merchant account information.This process is described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 4. Inaddition, FIGS. 9-18 show the display screens employed by the merchantactivation routine 24 to prompt the applicant for this information.Routine 304 is followed by step 306, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 conducts a credit check and scores the applicant as a creditrisk. For example, the credit scoring routine may use a different“score-card” or credit scoring routine based on the SIC business typeinput by the applicant (i.e., dynamic application of score-card based onSIC). The credit check typically involves an electronic query of acredit service computer, such as that operated by the EQUIFAX creditservice company or another similar system. Processes for conducting hiscredit check and scoring the applicant as a credit risk are well knownin the art and will not be further described in this specification,except to note that these processes are automatically implemented by themerchant activation routine 24 without human intervention during thecourse of the on-line session between the merchant computer 18 and theacquirer Internet server 22.

Step 306 is followed by step 308, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 determines whether the application is for a high riskbusiness type. This determination is typically based on the businesstype designation selected by the applicant, the application information(e.g., sales data), the credit check information obtained from thecredit service company, or a combination of the these factors. Inparticular, all of this information is typically reflected in the creditrisk score computed in step 306, and the decision of step 308 may bebased entirely on the basis of this score. Other factors may also betaken into account in the decision of step 308, such as applicant'slocation (e.g., flood risk, crime risk, fraud risk, permanence ofestablishment), the credit rating of the owners, the presence of a bondor insurance to pay creditors in the event of an interruption in theoperation of the business. In particular, it is desirable to identifyvery temporary “hit-and-run break-out fraud” types of establishments asvery “high risk.” Those skilled in the art will appreciate that manyother types of statistical and actuarial factors may be considered inscoring the applicant as a credit risk.

If the business is classified as a “high risk” business type, the “YES”branch is followed from step 308 to routine 310, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 implements high risk measures. These high riskmeasures are described with reference to FIG. 5. Routine 310 and the“NO” branch from step 308 are followed by step 312, in which themerchant activation routine 24 determines whether the application isapproved. That is, some credit risks are too high and will not beapproved by the merchant activation routine 24. In this case, theapplicant may elect to talk to a personal representative of the acquirerto determine whether special arrangements can be made for a merchantaccount under the particular risk conditions. If the application is notapproved, the “NO” branch is followed to step 314, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 e mails a rejection message to the applicant.Alternatively, a rejection message could be displayed immediately by themerchant activation routine 24, or a rejection letter could be generatedand mailed to the applicant, or some other type of notification could beimplemented. Step 314 is followed by the “END” step, which concludes themerchant activation routine 24.

If the application is approved, the “YES” branch is followed from step312 to routine 316, in which the merchant activation routine 24 promptsthe user to select or specify one or more point-of-sale terminals foruse in connection with the merchant account. This process is describedin greater detail with reference to FIG. 6. In addition, FIG. 19 showsthe display screen employed by the merchant activation routine 24 toprompt the user to select or specify the point-of-sale terminals.Basically, the applicant must specify at least one point-of-saleterminal 16 and an associated telephone number for use in connectionwith the merchant account so that the MID/TID and telephone informationmaintained in the merchant's point-of-sale terminal is consistent withthat maintained in the acquirer's master account file 28. The process ofaccomplishing this result is know as “activating” the merchant accountfor credit-card transactions.

Routine 316 is followed by step 318, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 displays a service fee schedule and related terms andconditions for the merchant account. The particulars of the service feeschedule and related terms and conditions may be varied in response tothe applicant's credit risk score and/or business type designation. Step318 is followed by step 320, in which the merchant activation routine 24determines whether the applicant has clicked a “YES” control itemindicating acceptance of the fee schedule and related terms andconditions. In addition, an electronic signature or other type oflegally-binding electronic indication may be required to create abinding legal contract between the merchant and the acquirer.Alternatively or additionally, a paper contract may be forwarded to themerchant for signature to memorialize the contract between the merchantand the acquirer.

If the applicant does not click “YES” to agree to the fee schedule andthe terms and conditions, the “NO” branch is followed from step 320 tostep 322, in which the merchant activation routine 24 or the applicant'sbrowser may timeout. If a timeout has not occurred, the “NO” branchloops the step 318, in which the merchant activation routine 24continues to wait for the applicant to click “YES” to accept. If atimeout has occurred, the “YES” branch is followed to the “END” step,which concludes routine 24.

If the applicant does click “YES” to agree to the fee schedule and theterms and conditions, the “YES” branch is followed from step 320 toroutine 324, in which the merchant activation routine 24 directly orindirectly configures the master account file 28 with MID/TIDidentification information for the new merchant account. Also in routine324, the merchant activation routine 24 schedules configuration of thepoint-of-sale terminal 16, either on-site for shipment to the merchantor remotely over the telephone system. Routine 324 is described ingreater detail with reference to FIG. 7.

Routine 324 is followed by step 326, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 issues a visitation order to the visitation department orcompany 34. This entity typically makes a physical visit to themerchant's premises 12 to verify that the applicant requesting themerchant account actually exists and appears to be in the identifiedbusiness. The visitation department or company 34 then returns averification indicating that the visitation has occurred and whether theapplicant appears to be in the identified business. The acquirertypically enters the visitation verification into the merchant's recordin the master account file 28 to complete the record. Step 326 isfollowed by the “END)” step, which concludes the merchant activationroutine 24.

FIG. 4 is a logic flow diagram illustrating routine 304 for obtainingmerchant account information. Routine 304 begins following step 302shown on FIG. 3. In step 402, the merchant activation routine 24 promptsthe applicant to enter business contact information. FIG. 10 illustratesa display screen that may be used to prompt the user to enter thisinformation. Step 402 is followed by step 404, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 prompts the applicant to enter business premisesinformation. FIG. 11 illustrates a display screen that may be used toprompt the user to enter this information. Step 404 is followed by step406, in which the merchant activation routine 24 prompts the applicantto enter sales data. FIG. 12 illustrates a display screen that may beused to prompt the user to enter this information.

Step 406 is followed by step 408, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 prompts the applicant to enter facility information. FIG. 13illustrates a display screen that may be used to prompt the user toenter this information. Step 408 is followed by step 410, in which themerchant activation routine 24 prompts the applicant to enter businessprocedure information. FIG. 14 illustrates a display screen that may beused to prompt the user to enter this information. Step 410 is followedby step 412, in which the merchant activation routine 24 prompts theapplicant to enter business owner information. FIG. 15 illustrates adisplay screen that may be used to prompt the user to enter thisinformation. Step 412 is followed by step 414, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 prompts the applicant to enter bank referenceinformation. FIG. 16 illustrates a display screen that may be used toprompt the user to enter this information. Step 414 is followed by step416, in which the merchant activation routine 24 prompts the applicantto enter funding information. FIG. 17 illustrates a display screen thatmay be used to prompt the user to enter this information. Step 416 isfollowed by the “CONTINUE” step 418, which returns to step 306 shown onFIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a logic flow diagram illustrating routine 310 for activatinghigh risk measures. Routine 310 begins following step 308 shown on FIG.3. In step 502, the merchant activation routine 24 prompts the applicantto select a preferred type of risk adjustment. Typically, the merchantactivation routine 24 displays a list of risk associated risk adjustmentmeasures with associated click boxes or circles. The applicant may clickto indicate one or more preferred risk adjustment measures. For example,the risk adjustment measures illustrated hi FIG. 5 include holding areserve fund and increasing the fees. Some applicants may be willing tomaintain a substantial reserve fund with the acquirer, whereas othersmay prefer to pay higher risk-adjusted fees. Others may prefer a mix ofthese measures. Other risk adjustment measures may include obtaininginsurance, a co-signatory, or maintaining a bond to cover anyunrecoverable fees. Those skilled in the art may ascertain other riskadjustment measures that may be used in connection with the merchantactivation routine 24. By obtaining the applicant's preference withrespect to risk adjustment, the acquirer may be accommodate thispreference in whole or in part.

Step 502 is followed by step 504, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 computes a reserve requirement for the applicant. Step 504 isfollowed by step 506, in which the merchant activation routine 24computes a reserve requirement for the applicant. As noted above, theapplicant's credit risk score and preference for risk adjustmentmeasures are preferably taken into account when computing these riskadjustment measures. Step 506 is followed by step 508, in which themerchant activation routine 24 displays the high risk terms andconditions, including the risk adjustment measures, to the applicant foracceptance.

Step 508 is followed by step 510, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 determines whether the applicant has clicked a “YES” controlitem indicating acceptance of the risk adjusted fee schedule and relatedterms and conditions. In addition, an electronic signature or other typeof legally-binding electronic indication may be required to create abinding legal contract between the merchant and the acquirer.Alternatively or additionally, a paper contract may be forwarded to themerchant for signature to memorialize the contract between the merchantand the acquirer.

If the applicant does not click “YES” to agree to the fee schedule andthe terms and conditions, the “NO” branch is followed from step 510 tostep 514, in which the merchant activation routine 24 or the applicant'sbrowser may timeout. If a timeout has not occurred, the “NO” branchloops the step 508, in which the merchant activation routine 24continues to wait for the applicant to click “YES” to accept. If atimeout has occurred, the “YES” branch is followed to step 516, in whichthe merchant activation routine 24 e-mails a rejection message to theapplicant. Alternatively, a rejection message could be displayedimmediately by the merchant activation routine 24, or a rejection lettercould be generated and mailed to the applicant, or some other type ofnotification could be implemented. Step 516 is followed by the “END”step, which concludes routine 310.

FIG. 6 is a logic flow diagram illustrating routine 316 for accepting apoint-of-sale terminal order or identification of a point-of-saleterminal that is already in the possession of the merchant. Routine 316follows the “YES” branch from step 312 shown on FIG. 3. In step 602, themerchant activation routine 24 displays a table of point-of-saleterminal options. This table is illustrated in FIG. 19. Selection of the“Lease” option indicates a point-of-sale terminal to be shipped to themerchant, whereas selection of the “Customer Owned” option indicates aterminal that is already in the merchant's possession. In the table,each point-of-sale terminal option is displayed in association with a“view” control item.

Step 602 is followed by step 604, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 determines whether it has received a selection of a “view”control item. If the “view” control item has been selected, the “YES”branch is followed to step 606, in which the merchant activation routine24 displays an image of the associated point-of-sale terminal. From step606, the merchant activation routine 24 loops to step 602 and continuesdisplay of the table of point-of-sale terminal options.

If the “view” control item has not been selected, the “NO” branch isfollowed from step 604 to step 608, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 determines whether the applicant has selected a controloption for ordering supplies. If the control option for orderingsupplies has been selected, the “YES” branch is followed to step 610, inwhich the merchant activation routine 24 displays a selection displayscreen, or a series of selection display screens, that allow theapplicant to order supplies. For example, the merchant activationroutine 24 may allow the applicant to order credit-card receipts androlls of paper for use with the point-of-sale terminals. Optionally, themerchant may purchase other goods and services during the on-linesession, such as software for operating an on-line store, informationrelating to financing alternatives, cash registers, customizedstationary, and a wide variety of other supplies and information relatedto the operation of the merchant's business. In step 610, the merchantactivation routine 24 logs the supplies ordered for shipment to themerchant. From step 610, the merchant activation routine 24 loops tostep 602 and continues display of the table of point-of-sale terminaloptions.

If the control option for ordering supplies has not been selected, the“NO” branch is followed from step 608 to step 612, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 determines whether the applicant has ordered newpoint-of-sale equipment or has specified the use of point-of-saleequipment that is already in the applicant's possession. As notedpreviously, this is indicated by the selection of a “Lease” option fornew point-of-sale equipment or a “Customer Owned” option forpoint-of-sale equipment that is already in the applicant's possession.It will be understood that an applicant may alternatively specify bothoptions. That is, the applicant may use some existing point-of-saleterminals and order some new ones using the merchant activation routine24.

If the applicant has not ordered a new point-of-sale terminal, the “NO”branch is followed from step 614 to step 616, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 prompts the applicant to enter the terminalspecification and the telephone number assigned to the terminal. The“YES” branch from step 614 and step 616 is followed by the “CONTINUE”step, which returns to step 318 shown on FIG. 3. However, the merchantactivation routine 24 may also prompt the applicant for a telephonenumber for use in connection with a new point-of-sale terminal beforeexiting routine 316. In this case, the point-of-sale terminal will beshipped with its assigned telephone directory number already configuredinto the terminal. Alternatively, the point-of-sale terminal may beshipped without its assigned telephone directory number, and theapplicant may configure the point-of-sale terminal with its assignedtelephone directory upon receipt of the terminal. In this case, thepoint-of-sale terminal downloads its assigned telephone directory numberto the acquirer's main computer 26 upon establishing an initialcommunication over the telephone network 40. In either case, thisinformation is stored in the applicant's record in the master accountfile 28.

FIG. 7 is a logic flow diagram illustrating routine 324 for configuringthe master account file 28 and the point-of-sale terminal 16. Routine324 follows the “YES” branch from step 320 shown on FIG. 3. In step 702,the merchant activation routine 24 may generate the MID/TIDidentification information, or alternatively the merchant activationroutine 24 may trigger the main computer 26 to generate the MID/TIDidentification information. In either case, step 702 is followed by step704, in which the identification information is configured into themaster account file 26.

Step 706 is followed by step 708, in which the merchant activationroutine 24 determines whether the applicant has ordered newpoint-of-sale equipment. If the applicant has ordered new point-of-saleequipment, the “YES” branch is followed step 710, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 schedules the point-of-sale terminal forconfiguration by a technician using the expert computer system 30.Alternatively, this step could be automated for performance by theexpert computer system 30 without the intervention of the technician.Step 710 is followed by step 712, in which the technician or the expertcomputer system 30 ships the point-of-sale terminal to the merchant.

Referring again to step 708, if the applicant has not ordered newpoint-of-sale equipment, the “NO” branch is followed step 714, in whichthe merchant activation routine 24 schedules the remote reprogramming ofthe merchant's point-of-sale terminal. A technician using the expertcomputer system 30 subsequently places a telephone call to themerchant's point-of-sale terminal. Alternatively, this step could beautomated for performance by the expert computer system 30 without theintervention of the technician. In addition, this step could beperformed in “real time” during the on-line session. In each case, step714 is followed by step 716, in which the technician or the expertcomputer system 30 reprograms the merchant's point-of-sale terminal withthe assigned MID/TID identification information. Other data, such as anupdated operating system and/or encryption software, may also bedownloaded onto the point-of-sale terminal at this time.

Steps 712 and 716 are followed by step 718, in which the merchantactivation routine 24 determines whether the applicant has ordered othersupplies. If the applicant has ordered other supplies, the “YES” branchis followed to step 720, in which the merchant activation routine 24cause a technician or an expert computer system to fill the order andship the supplies. Step 720 and the “NO” branch from step 718 arefollowed by the “CONTINUE” step 722, which returns to step 324 shown onFIG. 3.

FIGS. 8-21 illustrate display screens for an application for a merchantaccount. The process of receiving information from the applicantcompleting the application for the merchant account may includeprompting the user to enter business contact information, businesspremises information, business sales data, business owner information,and information relating to funding for the charges associated withadministering the merchant account. FIG. 8 is an illustration of adisplay screen for receiving a business type designation in a merchantaccount activation routine. A merchant operating a merchant computer 18initiates an on-line session between the Internet server 22 and themerchant computer 18. The Internet server 22 displays an opening displayscreen 800 for the merchant. The opening display screen 800 introducesthe merchant to the process for completing an application for opening amerchant account. Typically, the opening display screen is the first ofa series of display screens or webpages containing data fields, pushbuttons, radio buttons, pull down boxes, check boxes, and the like.After the merchant has read the opening display screen 800, the merchantis prompted by a “Continue” push button 802 and a “Cancel” push button804. If the merchant clicks the “Continue” push button 802, the Internetserver 22 continues the application process as described in FIGS. 9-21.However, if the merchant clicks the “Cancel” push button 804, theInternet server 22 discontinues the application process, and theInternet server 22 returns the merchant to a home page.

The opening display screen 800 contains one or more links 806 to otherdisplay screens or web pages containing relevant information. Forexample, a link 806 to learn more about potential business typecategories can be helpful to the merchant's decision in selectingpoint-of-sale equipment. When the merchant clicks upon the link 806, oneor more additional display screens or web pages illustrate potentialbusiness type categories offered by the system.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a display screen stating business typeconditions in a merchant account activation routine. After the merchantclicks the “Continue” push button 802, as shown in FIG. 8, the Internetserver 22 continues the application process by displaying a businesstype conditions screen 900 explaining the different business typeconditions needed to activate a merchant account. For example, abusiness type condition screen 900 can explain minimum conditionsrequired to activate a merchant account, such as requiring the merchantto at least 18 years of age.

After the merchant has read the business type condition screen 900, themerchant is prompted by a “Continue” push button 902 and a “Cancel” pushbutton 904. If the merchant clicks the “Continue” push button 902, theInternet server 22 continues the application process as described inFIGS. 10-21. However, if the merchant clicks the “Cancel” push button904, the Internet server 22 discontinues the application process, andthe Internet server 22 returns the merchant to a home page.

The business type condition screen 900 contains one or more links906-910 to other display screens or web pages containing relevantinformation. For example, if the merchant does not see a matchingbusiness type, a link 906 to explain the potential business typecategories can be helpful to the merchant's decision in selectingpoint-of-sale equipment. When the merchant clicks upon the link 906, oneor more additional display screens or web pages offer greaterinformation and detail about the potential business type categoriesoffered by the system.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businesscontact information in a merchant account activation routine. After themerchant clicks the “Continue” push button 902, as shown in FIG. 9, theInternet server 22 continues the application process by displaying abusiness contact information input screen 1000 permitting the merchantto input business contact information data into one or more preselecteddata fields 1002-1030 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1002-1030 can prompt the merchant to enterbusiness contact information as follows. Field 1002 prompts the merchantto enter a business name. Field 1004 prompts the merchant to enter alegal business name. Field 1006 prompts the merchant to enter a streetaddress. Field 1008 prompts the merchant to enter a city for the streetaddress. Field 1010 prompts the merchant to enter a state for the streetaddress. Field 1012 prompts the merchant to enter a postal zip code.Filed 1014 prompts the merchant to enter a name of an authorizedcontract signer. Field 1016 prompts the merchant to enter a title, suchas treasurer, for the authorized contract signer by clicking on andpulling down a pull down box menu. Field 1018 prompts the merchant toenter a telephone number. Field 1020 prompts the merchant to enter afacsimile or fax number. Field 1022 prompts the merchant to enterspecial “attention to” information. Field 1024 prompts the merchant toenter an e-mail address. Field 1026 prompts the merchant to enter a WEBstore e-mail address. Field 1028 prompts the merchant to enter a type ofbusiness, such as an auto parts store, by clicking on and pulling down apull down box menu. Field 1030 prompts the merchant to enter a businesscategory, such as retail, by clicking on and pulling down a pull downbox menu.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1002-1030, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the business contact information input screen 1000 andcontinues the application process as described in FIGS. 11-21. Thepredetermined minimum number of fields can be adjusted according to thenecessary information required by the system to process and activate amerchant account. If the merchant does not enter data or informationinto the predetermined minimum number of fields, then the Internetserver returns the user back to the business contact information inputscreen 1000 until data or information is input into the minimum numberof fields. For example, the selected data fields or blanks comprisingthe predetermined minimum number of fields for the business contactinformation input screen 1000 are designated by the “*” next to selecteddata fields or blanks.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businesspremises information in a merchant account activation routine. TheInternet server 22 continues the application process by displaying abusiness premises information input screen 1100 permitting the merchantto input business premises information data into one or more preselecteddata fields 1102-1116 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1102-1116 can prompt the merchant to enterbusiness premises information as follows. Field 1102 prompts themerchant to enter a business zone, such as a business district, byclicking on and pulling down a pull down box menu. Field 1104 promptsthe merchant to enter a general business location, such as shoppingmall, by clicking on and pulling down a conventional scroll-down menu.Field 1106 prompts the merchant to enter business organization orownership type, such as a sole proprietorship, by clicking on andpulling down a pull down box menu. Field 1108 prompts the merchant toenter a state of incorporation. Field 1110 prompts the merchant to entera federal tax identification number or a social security number if thebusiness is unincorporated. Field 1112 prompts the merchant to enter adate when the business first began. Filed 1114 prompts the merchant toenter the size of the business by number employees. Field 1116 promptsthe merchant to a short description of what goods or services thebusiness sells to consumers.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1102-1116, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the business premises information input screen 1100 andcontinues the application process as described in FIGS. 12-21.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businesssales data in a merchant account activation routine. The Internet server22 continues the application process by displaying a business sales dataand information input screen 1200 permitting the merchant to inputbusiness sales data and information into one or more preselected datafields 1202-1214 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1202-1214 can prompt the merchant to enterbusiness sales data and information as follows. Field 1202 prompts themerchant to enter a total cash and credit sales amount. Field 1204prompts the merchant to enter a local or state sale tax percentage.Field 1206 prompts the merchant to select the merchant's credit cardrefund policies, such as exchange, store credit, or refund, by clickingon a corresponding check box. If a refund is offered under themerchant's credit card refund policies, then field 1208 permits themerchant to select the time period to submission, such as 0-3 days, byclicking on and pulling down a pull down box menu. Field 1212 promptsthe merchant to enter credit card sales submission information, such asthe date of order, by clicking on and pulling down a pull down box menu.Field 1214 prompts the merchant to enter an amount of annual credit cardsales. Field 1216 prompts the merchant to an average sales amount.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1202-1216, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the business sales data and information input screen 1200 andcontinues the application process as described in FIGS. 13-21.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessfacility information in a merchant account activation routine. TheInternet server 22 continues the application process by displaying abusiness premises information input screen 1300 permitting the merchantto input facility information data into one or more preselected datafields 1302-1306 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1302-1306 can prompt the merchant to enterbusiness facility information as follows. Field 1302 prompts themerchant to check a box corresponding to the merchant's advertising namedisplay, such as window, door, or store front, by clicking acorresponding box. Field 1304 prompts the merchant to select a storefacility location, such as ground floor or other, by clicking acorresponding radio button. Field 1306 prompts the merchant to an amountof facility square footage, such as 250 square feet, by clicking on andpulling down a pull down box menu.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1302-1306, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the facility information input screen 1300 and continues theapplication process as described in FIGS. 14-21.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessprocedures information in a merchant account activation routine. TheInternet server 22 continues the application process by displaying abusiness procedures information input screen 1400 permitting themerchant to input business procedures information or data into one ormore preselected data fields 1402-1420 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1402-1420 can prompt the merchant to enterbusiness procedures information as follows. Fields 1402-1406 prompt themerchant to enter a series of percentage numbers into data fieldscorresponding to the merchant's percentages of sales from particularsources, such as in store, mail or telephone order, and Internet, byentering an amount into a corresponding box. Fields 1408-1414 prompt themerchant to enter a series of percentage numbers into data fieldscorresponding to the merchant's percentages of product delivery times,such as 0-7 days, 8-14 days, 15-30 days, and 30+ days, by entering anamount into a corresponding box. Field 1416 prompts the merchant toenter how the merchant advertises, such as by brochure or mail, catalog,television or radio, and newspaper or magazine, by clicking on acorresponding check box. Field 1418 prompts the merchant to enterinformation disclosing the merchant's current credit card processor.Field 1420 prompts the merchant to enter information disclosing thecredit card processor's telephone number.

At the lower portion of the business procedures display screen 1400, anavigation button bar 1422 presents the merchant buttons correspondingto application process steps, such as general info, business reference,funding info, choose processing types, order equipment, service fees,submit, and cancel. If the merchant selects one of the buttons in thenavigation button bar 1422, a corresponding display page or webpage willbe presented to the merchant. Examples of each of the applicationprocess step display pages or webpages are shown and described in FIGS.8-21.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1402-1422, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the business procedures data or information input screen 1400and continues the application process as described in FIGS. 15-21.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessowner information in a merchant account activation routine. The Internetserver 22 continues the application process by displaying an owner andbusiness reference information input screen 1500 permitting the merchantto input owner and business reference information or data into one ormore preselected data fields 1502-1540 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1502-1540 can prompt the merchant to enterowner and business reference information as follows. Fields 1502-1520prompt the merchant to enter first owner, partner or officerinformation. Specifically, field 1502 prompts the merchant to enter afirst name. Field 1504 prompts the merchant to enter a middle initial.Field 1506 prompts the merchant to enter a last name. Field 1508 promptsthe merchant to enter a street address. Field 1510 prompts the merchantto enter a city for the street address. Field 1512 prompts the merchantto enter a state for the street address. Field 1514 prompts the merchantto enter a postal zip code for the street address. Field 1516 promptsthe merchant to enter a title for the first owner, such as owner, byclicking on and pulling down a pull down box. Field 1518 prompts themerchant to enter a telephone number. Field 1520 prompts the merchant toenter a social security number. Fields 1522-1540 prompt the merchant toenter second owner, partner or officer information. Specifically, field1522 prompts the merchant to enter a first name. Field 1524 prompts themerchant to enter a middle initial. Field 1526 prompts the merchant toenter a last name. Field 1528 prompts the merchant to enter a streetaddress. Field 1530 prompts the merchant to enter a city for the streetaddress. Field 1532 prompts the merchant to enter a state for the streetaddress. Field 1534 prompts the merchant to enter a postal zip code forthe street address. Field 1536 prompts the merchant to enter a title forthe first owner, such as owner, by clicking on and pulling down a pulldown box. Field 1538 prompts the merchant to enter a telephone number.Field 1540 prompts the merchant to enter a social security number.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1502-1540, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the owner or business references information input screen 1500and continues the application process as described in FIGS. 16-21.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessbank reference information in a merchant account activation routine. TheInternet server 22 continues the application process by displaying anbank reference information input screen 1600 permitting the merchant toinput bank reference information or data into one or more preselecteddata fields 1602-1624 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1602-1624 can prompt the merchant to enter bankreference information as follows. Field 1602 prompts the merchant toenter a bank name. Field 1604 prompts the merchant to-enter a streetaddress. Field 1606 prompts the merchant to enter a city for the streetaddress. Field 1608 prompts the merchant to enter a state for the streetaddress. Field 1610 prompts the merchant to enter a postal zip code forthe street address. Field 1612 prompts the merchant to enter a bankcontact name. Field 1614 prompts the merchant to enter a date indicatingwhen the bank relationship began. Fields 1616 prompts the merchant toindicate whether the merchant is a borrower, such as a yes or noresponse, by selecting a corresponding radio button. Field 1618 promptsthe merchant to enter an amount indicating the average balance held bythe bank. Field 1620 prompts the merchant to enter an amount indicatingthe total loan/credit facilities. Field 1622 prompts the merchant toenter an amount indicating the total of other business/personal accountfinances.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1602-1624, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the bank reference information input screen 1600 and continuesthe application process as described in FIGS. 17-21.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving businessfunding information in a merchant account activation routine. TheInternet server 22 continues the application process by displaying anbank reference information input screen 1700 permitting the merchant toinput funding information or data into one or more preselected datafields 1702-1704 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1702-1704 can prompt the merchant to enterfunding information as follows. Field 1702 prompts the merchant to enteran American Banker's Association (ABA) number. The merchant activationroutine 24 includes a control, such as a look-up to a database of validABA numbers, to ensure that the applicant has entered a valid ABAnumber. The merchant activation routine 24 will not process theapplication unless it receives a valid ABA number. The database of validABA numbers is typically updated daily, and the applicant may be givenone or more opportunities to enter a valid ABA number. Field 1704prompts the merchant to enter a Demand Deposit Account (DDA) number.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1702-1704, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the funding information input screen 1700 and continues theapplication process as described in FIGS. 18-21.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a display screen for receiving transactionprocessing type information in a merchant account activation routine.The Internet server 22 continues the application process by displayingan bank reference information input screen 1800 permitting the merchantto input credit card processing information or data into one or morepreselected data fields 1802-1818 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1802-1818 can prompt the merchant to entercredit card processing information as follows. Fields 1802-1814 promptthe merchant to select a credit card type, such as Mastercard, VISA,American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB, or a debit card, byclicking on a corresponding check box. If the merchant selects AmericanExpress as a credit card type, then fields 1816-1818 prompt the merchantfor further information regarding the desired American Express account,such as the need to apply for an American Express account or having anpre-existing account, by clicking on a corresponding radio button. Ifthe merchant indicates that a preexisting account has been opened, thenfield 1820 prompts the user to enter the existing account number.Similarly, if the merchant selects Discover as a credit card type, thenfield 1822 prompts the user to enter the existing account number.

At the lower portion of the credit card processing display screen 1800,a navigation button bar 1824 presents the merchant buttons correspondingto application process steps, such as general info, business reference,funding info, choose processing types, order equipment, service fees,submit, and cancel. If the merchant selects one of the buttons in thenavigation button bar 1824, a corresponding display page or webpage willbe presented to the merchant. Examples of each of the applicationprocess step display pages or webpages are shown and described in FIGS.8-21.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1802-1822, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the credit card processing information input screen 1800 andcontinues the application process as described in FIGS. 19-21.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a display screen for receivingpoint-of-sale terminal information in a merchant account activationroutine. The Internet server 22 continues the application process bydisplaying a point-of-sale terminal information input screen 1900permitting the merchant to input credit card processing information ordata into one or more preselected data fields 1902-1920 or blanks.

For example, data fields 1902-1920 can prompt the merchant to enterpoint-of-sale terminal information as follows. Field 1902 prompts themerchant to select an equipment lease or own option by clicking on acorresponding radio button. Fields 1904-1918 prompt the merchant toselect an equipment option package displayed on the screen. Field 1920prompts the merchant to select additional equipment such as an imprinterby clicking on a corresponding check box. Beside each field 1904-1918 isa table 1922 of options describing of each equipment option package,such as a model number, viewable images, lease price, availability oflease, whether the equipment can be customer-owned, and whether a debitoption is available. Links 1924 to viewable images of particularequipment option packages or additional equipment can also be presentedwithin the table 1922 or elsewhere on the display screen 1900. Inresponse to selecting a link 1924, the merchant activation routinedisplays an image depicting the point-of-sale terminal associated withthe selected view control item.

At the lower portion of the credit card processing display screen 1900,a navigation button bar 1924 presents the merchant buttons correspondingto application process steps, such as general info, business reference,funding info, choose processing types, order equipment, service fees,submit, and cancel. If the merchant selects one of the buttons in thenavigation button bar 1924, a corresponding display page or webpage willbe presented to the merchant. Examples of each of the applicationprocess step display pages or webpages are shown and described in FIGS.8-21.

After the merchant has input data into a predetermined minimum number offields 1902-1920, the merchant computer 18 sends the merchant's data tothe Internet server 22. The Internet server 22 receives the merchant'sdata from the point-of-sale terminal information input screen 1900 andcontinues the application process as described in FIGS. 20-21.

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a display screen for stating a feeschedule in a merchant account activation routine. The Internet server22 continues the application process by displaying a fee scheduleinformation screen 2000 permitting the merchant to view fee scheduleinformation by credit card type and by transaction description in one ormore data tables 2002-2004.

For example, data tables 2002-2004 can show the merchant fee scheduleinformation as follows. Data table 2002 displays rate information forparticular credit card types. Data table 2004 displays fee amounts forparticular transaction descriptions. Other fee schedule information canbe shown in the fee schedule information display screen 2000 dependingupon the merchant's choices and selections made during the previousapplication process described in FIGS. 8-19.

At the lower portion of the fee schedule information display screen2000, a navigation button bar 2006 presents the merchant buttonscorresponding to application process steps, such as general info,business reference, funding info, choose processing types, orderequipment, service fees, submit, and cancel. If the merchant selects oneof the buttons in the navigation button bar 2006, a correspondingdisplay page or webpage will be presented to the merchant. Examples ofeach of the application process step display pages or webpages are shownand described in FIGS. 8-21.

After the merchant has viewed the fee schedule information displayscreen 2000, the merchant can select one of the buttons in thenavigation button bar 2006. For example, when the merchant has completeddata input on the previously described application display screens shownin FIGS. 8-19, the merchant selects the “SUBMIT” button 2008 on thenavigation button bar 2006. The “SUBMIT” button 2008 indicates to thesystem that the merchant has completed data input and is ready tocomplete the application process. The Internet server 22 receives themerchant's “SUBMIT” request and continues the application process asdescribed in FIG. 21.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a display screen for stating terms andconditions in a merchant account activation routine. The Internet server22 continues the application process by displaying a terms andconditions screen 2100 explaining the contractual terms and conditionsto the merchant desiring to activate a merchant account. For example, aterms and conditions screen 2100 can explain accounting and debitingpractices, liability limits, termination provisions, dispute resolutionsterms, and guarantee and warranty conditions.

Thus, the invention allows a merchant to activate a merchant accountduring a single on-line session. After completing the on-lineapplication, the merchant can begin accepting credit-card transactionsas soon as the associated point-of-sale terminal is received orreprogrammed, which may be the next business day. It should beunderstood that the foregoing pertains only to the preferred embodimentsof the present invention, and that numerous changes may be made to theembodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention.

1-46. (canceled)
 47. A system for enabling a merchant to apply for acredit card processing account using the Internet to open a credit cardprocessing account with a third party provider for the third partyprovider to process credit card orders made by customers with themerchant, the system comprising: a computer browser in communicationwith the Internet; an Internet information server in communication withthe computer browser over the Internet, the Internet information serverproviding HTML pages on the computer browser for a merchant to submitcredit card processing account application information to the Internetinformation server, wherein the submitted credit card processing accountinformation includes credit check and score information, said creditcheck and score information being in the Internet information server;and a processor in communication with the Internet information server toprocess the credit card processing account information to determinewhether to grant the merchant a credit card processing account with thethird party provider, wherein a determination to grant the merchant acredit card processing account with the third party provider comprisesassigning a merchant identifier (MID) and a terminal identifier (TID) topoint of sale (POS) equipment to be utilized by the merchant inprocessing credit card orders, and storing a features of service for thecredit card processing account including the MID and TID in a masteraccount file associated with the merchant in the processor; theprocessor being operative to provide the assigned MID and TID from themaster account file for use in configuring the POS equipment in a POSequipment configuration operation.
 48. The system of claim 47, whereinthe POS equipment configuration operation comprises utilizing an expertsystem to assist a technician in configuring POS equipment by displayingsaid assigned MID and TID to the technician in connection withconfiguring the POS equipment prior to shipment of said POS equipment tothe merchant.
 49. The system of claim 47, wherein the POS equipmentconfiguration operation comprises placing a telephone call to existingPOS equipment and reprogramming said existing POS equipment with saidassigned MID and TID.
 50. A method for enabling a merchant to apply fora credit card processing account using the Internet to open a creditcard processing account with a third party provider for the third partyprovider to process credit card orders made by customers with themerchant, the method comprising: providing a computer browser incommunication with the Internet; providing an Internet informationserver in communication with the computer browser over the Internet;browsing the Internet with the computer browser to receive HTML pagesfrom the Internet information server; entering credit card processingaccount information of a merchant into the HTML pages to submit thecredit card processing account information to the Internet informationserver, wherein the submitted credit card processing account informationincludes credit check and score information, said credit check and scoreinformation being in the Internet information server; providing aprocessor in communication with the Internet information server;processing the credit card processing account information with theprocessor to determine whether to grant the merchant a credit cardprocessing account with the third party provider, wherein adetermination to grant the merchant a credit card processing accountwith the third party provider comprises assigning a merchant identifier(MID) and a terminal identifier (TID) to point of sale (POS) equipmentto be utilized by the merchant in processing credit card orders; storingfeatures of service for the credit card processing account including theMID and TID in a master account file associated with the merchant in theprocessor; and providing the assigned MID and TID from the masteraccount file for use in configuring the POS equipment in a POS equipmentconfiguration operation.
 51. The method of claim 50, wherein the POSequipment configuration operation comprises utilizing an expert systemto assist a technician in configuring POS equipment by displaying saidassigned MID and TID to the technician in connection with configuringthe POS equipment prior to shipment of said POS equipment to themerchant.
 52. The method of claim 50, wherein the POS equipmentconfiguration operation comprises placing a telephone call to existingPOS equipment and reprogramming said existing POS equipment with saidassigned MID and TID. 53-55. (canceled)